Head-to-Head: Plugable USBC-8IN1E vs. Anker 553 8-in-1 USB-C Hub

Comparing the USB-C Hub Workstation Experience

Two USB-C hubs. Eight ports each. But one supports two external monitors, while the other can deliver up to 4K 144Hz on a single display. Choosing the wrong one could leave you with a workspace that doesn't behave the way you expected.

The Anker 553 8-in-1 USB-C Hub prioritizes dual-monitor connectivity. Its two HDMI 2.0 outputs make it appealing to Windows users who need additional desktop space for spreadsheets, communication tools, and everyday multitasking.

The Plugable USBC-8IN1E takes a different approach. Instead of two HDMI outputs, it features one HDMI 2.1 connection capable of higher resolutions and refresh rates, along with a dedicated USB-C data port for modern peripherals.

Both hubs offer Gigabit Ethernet, SD and microSD card readers, USB-A connectivity, and pass-through laptop charging.

The important difference isn't the number of ports. It's what those ports can actually do once your laptop, operating system, monitor, and USB-C capabilities enter the equation.

Technical Specifications Matrix

Maximum display performance depends on host DisplayPort capabilities, operating system, monitor, and cable. Anker's dual-monitor output may be limited to 1080p 60Hz on DP 1.2 Windows hosts.

Where the Anker 553 May Be a Better Fit

If your priority is running two independent external monitors from a compatible Windows laptop, the Anker 553 has a clear advantage.

Its dual HDMI 2.0 outputs support extended desktop configurations through DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST). On compatible DisplayPort 1.4 Windows systems, Anker specifies up to two 2560x1440 displays at 60Hz. DisplayPort 1.2 systems may be limited to dual 1080p at 60Hz.

For professionals managing spreadsheets, communication tools, browser windows, and multiple applications, additional screen space can be more valuable than higher refresh rates on a single display.

Two High-Speed USB-A Connections

The Anker 553 also provides two USB-A ports supporting up to 5Gbps each.

This arrangement is useful for users regularly connecting multiple USB-A storage devices or other higher-bandwidth peripherals.

The trade-off is USB-C connectivity. While the Anker 553 includes a USB-C Power Delivery input, that connection is intended for charging, not attaching USB-C data peripherals.

For Windows users who need two external monitors and primarily rely on USB-A accessories, the Anker 553 offers a practical configuration.

Where the Plugable USBC-8IN1E Pulls Ahead

For users building a single-monitor workstation, the Plugable USBC-8IN1E offers greater display performance potential and more flexible connectivity for newer USB-C peripherals.

HDMI 2.1: Higher Refresh Rates for Modern Displays

The most significant difference between these hubs is display capability.

The Anker 553 supports up to 4K 60Hz through one HDMI output on a compatible DP 1.4 host. The Plugable USBC-8IN1E supports up to 4K 144Hz or 8K 30Hz through its HDMI 2.1 output when the complete setup supports those modes.

For anyone using a high-refresh-rate 4K monitor, the benefits are noticeable.

At 144Hz, a display refreshes more than twice as frequently as a 60Hz monitor. Scrolling through documents, moving windows, navigating applications, and viewing motion-intensive content can feel noticeably smoother.

However, HDMI 2.1 doesn't automatically guarantee 4K 144Hz. The connected laptop must provide sufficient DisplayPort bandwidth and Display Stream Compression (DSC) support, while the monitor and HDMI cable must support the requested display mode.

The USBC-8IN1E uses the laptop's existing graphics capabilities. It doesn't bypass host hardware limitations.

Dedicated USB-C Data Connectivity

The Plugable USBC-8IN1E includes a dedicated 5Gbps downstream USB-C data port, something the Anker 553 lacks.

This allows users to connect compatible USB-C external storage, smartphones, and other data peripherals without needing a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter.

Plugable also includes one 5Gbps USB-A port and one USB 2.0 port, providing a useful balance for connecting storage alongside keyboards, mice, or wireless receivers.

The USB-C data port is not a second display output. Users who need two external monitors should choose a different solution such as the USBC-11IN1E.

Shared Essentials: Networking, Storage, and Charging

Both hubs include Gigabit Ethernet, SD and microSD UHS-I card readers, and USB-C Power Delivery pass-through charging.

These connections are useful for professionals who need reliable wired networking, access to removable storage, and laptop charging without carrying multiple adapters.

Both hubs accept up to 100W Power Delivery input and provide up to 85W to a compatible laptop. The advertised 100W input refers to the power accepted by the hub, not the power delivered to the laptop.

Neither includes a USB-C wall charger, and laptops requiring more than 85W during demanding workloads may charge more slowly or draw from their batteries while connected.

Compatibility Matters More Than the Connector

Two USB-C ports can look identical and still support very different display, charging, and data capabilities.

Both hubs rely on the host computer's native USB-C video output. HDMI functionality requires DisplayPort Alt Mode, while laptop charging requires USB-C Power Delivery input support.

Even with a compatible USB-C port, available DisplayPort bandwidth and operating system limitations determine the final display configuration.

The macOS Dual-Monitor Catch

Mac users considering the Anker 553 should pay particular attention to its dual HDMI functionality.

The Anker 553 uses MST to distribute video across two HDMI outputs. Compatible Windows systems can use MST to create two independent extended desktops.

The Plugable USBC-8IN1E provides one HDMI output and does not require a DisplayLink graphics driver. However, it still follows the connected Mac's native external display limitations.

Mac users requiring two independent external displays should consider a compatible DisplayLink-enabled solution or an appropriate Thunderbolt configuration instead.

Not Every Laptop Supports 4K 144Hz

The USBC-8IN1E's maximum display specifications are conditional, not universal.

Plugable documents support for up to 4K 144Hz or 8K 30Hz on compatible Windows 11 systems with DP 1.4 and DSC, or qualifying Macs running macOS 26 or later.

Supported Mac configurations include compatible M1/M2 Pro or Max systems and supported M3 or newer Macs. Base M1/M2 MacBooks and MacBook Neo models are documented as supporting up to 4K 60Hz through this hub.

Achieving the desired display resolution and refresh rate requires support from the laptop, operating system, USB-C connection, HDMI cable, and monitor.

For the highest-bandwidth HDMI modes, an appropriate Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is recommended.

Support and Peace of Mind

The Plugable USBC-8IN1E includes a two-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support from Plugable's North American team.

The Anker 553 includes an 18-month limited warranty.

For users uncertain about DisplayPort Alt Mode, maximum monitor refresh rates, laptop charging, or macOS compatibility, Plugable Support can help verify the intended configuration before purchase.

Sometimes the best troubleshooting experience is avoiding the problem altogether.

Final Decision: Which Hub Should You Choose?

Short version: Choose the Anker 553 for dual-monitor productivity on compatible Windows laptops, or the Plugable USBC-8IN1E for higher single-monitor performance and dedicated USB-C data connectivity.

Both are capable portable USB-C hubs, but they prioritize different workstation requirements.

For Mac users, the Anker 553's dual HDMI layout does not translate into two independent extended desktops. The USBC-8IN1E instead provides a straightforward single-display connection, with higher resolutions and refresh rates available on qualifying systems.

Neither hub is the right choice for every laptop. The better option depends on your operating system, host capabilities, monitor configuration, and the devices you connect most often.

Explore the Plugable USBC-8IN1E USB-C Hub to review its capabilities and compatibility requirements before purchasing.

For one high-refresh monitor

Plugable USB-C 8-in-1 Hub, 4K 144Hz, 100W Pass-Thru Charging

View the USBC-8IN1E

For two monitors

Plugable 11-in-1 USB-C Hub 100W Pass-through, Dual Monitor 4K 60Hz HDMI

View the USBC-11IN1E

Frequently Asked Questions